The House Without A Christmas Tree (1974) - Plot & Excerpts
Some have speculated that The House Without a Christmas Tree by Gail Rock is inspired by true events in the author’s life. Indeed, there are many reasons to think this. Consider that main character Addie Mills lives with her dad and grandmother—and that the dedication reads “To Grandma and Dad”. Then there is the prologue, in which the narrator states that she now lives in the city, but once lived in Clear River, Nebraska. She often thinks of that little town and that special Christmas in 1946 when she was ten-years-old. There is also the epilogue, but I can’t tell you about it without ruining the ending for you. As for the story itself, in many ways it feels like what anyone in a small town might experience—up to a point. Addie and Carla Mae are best friends who like to hang out at each other’s homes. This particular December day, they’re talking what to buy for the student exchange at school and Addie is stumped about what to buy snobby Tonya. As Addie and Carla Mae spell their names with soup noodles, the conversation shifts to what each girl wants for Christmas. Sound like typical small town life? Oh, and Addie and Billie have a crush on each other, but of course neither will admit it. Then Carla Mae asks, “How come you haven’t got your Christmas tree up yet?” Addie parrots the argument that her dad uses: they cost too much. The reality is sadder, to the point that the topic is a forbidden topic. Sometimes even true stories can become cliché. When telling my husband about this book, he easily guessed its big secret. Yet my biggest problem instead is how long the secret is withheld and then how quickly Addie’s problems are resolved once we know the truth behind them. Even so, The House Without a Christmas Tree remains a charming seasonal classic that everyone should read once.
I was looking for a Christmas novel that 1) had heart, 2) wasn't sappy, and 3) didn't make me cry. I found it in The House Without a Christmas Tree: sweet, concise (I read it today), and old-fashioned in the best way. It's the story of Addie Mills, a fiesty 10-year-old in 1946, who can't understand why her father won't allow them to have a Christmas tree. Father and daughter both have trouble communicating with those they care about, and so it's good they have Grandma to bridge the gap. Grandma tries to make Addie see the situation from her father's point of view, that of a man who's still grieving the loss of his wife, while simultaneously explaining to her son the importance of loving the ones still with us. But it takes a series of miscues, including Addie dragging a tree through town (twice!) before all can be resolved. A lovely story that leaves you hoping there really are girls like Addie Mills in the world and wishing you could know one.
What do You think about The House Without A Christmas Tree (1974)?
I got this in a garage sale many years ago, and I forgot about it (having never gotten around to reading it). It wasn't until I was stuck in my grandmother's basement in Wichita (a few years later), and a strange Christmas special come on T.V. about a girl's tree-less plight. Remembering, I dusted off the little book, and was amazed at what a simple, sweet story it was. It tells of how 5th grader Addie Mills longs for a Christmas tree, but her father forbids it--due to the painful reminders of Addie's deceased mother that it induces. Eventually father and daughter come together and learn about each other--developing a real relationship. This story has the potential to be very saccharine, but "House" does not leave you sappy--thank goodness!
—Rachel
When I was in 4th grade my sister gave me this book. It was her copy from the 70's and she told me what an outstanding story it was. It was Christmas time when I received this book and thought this would be the proper time to read it. The story was so sweet and heart warming. I loved how the little girl just wanted to make Christmas special in her home but her father would not allow it. I remember the part when the teacher allowed her to take the classroom tree home and how excited she was to finally make Christmas special. My sister sure was right and I am so glad she took the time to hand this book down to me. It's amazing when good books get passed around from generation to generation. If you haven't read it do take the time to read it. It sure is a quick read and a very wonderful book. Great message and great story.
—Natalie Pietro
I really enjoy Gail Rock's writing style. I read The Thanksgiving Treasure when I was a child and really loved it and have read it many times even as an adult. I was at the library here recently and came across this book. I was so surprised, I never realized this writer had other books! Having enjoyed the one so much, I had to check this one out and see if it was as good. It was, all the same characters and the same town, it was wonderful!! Kind of like a little family reunion!!Its a small book, read very quickly. The writing moves along so smoothly, before you know it the story is over. I love the prologue and epilogue, they completely add to the story and bring the characters to life even more. I am looking forward to reading this book out loud with my daughter when she is a bit older, a really sweet Christmas story. I have only read the two Addie books so far but in both you seem to get a bit of a life lesson as well as a wonderful story.
—Sandie
